Yep, Is It Time to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone?

(ThyBlackMan.com) I have been pondering a major decision that would take me out of my comfort zone. I’ve prayed about it and listened for God’s guidance. In the process, one of the things I’ve noticed is how easy it is for the noise of one’s emotions to interfere with hearing that divine inner voice that always provides the wisest answer. Indeed there is a difference between emotionally-guided decisions and spiritually-guided ones, but have you noticed that it can sometimes be challenging to discern the difference?

It is essential not to allow doubt, anxiety or worry to keep you from stepping out of your comfort zone in divine timing. As I felt some anxiety creeping in about our decision, this scripture came to mind:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God …” – Philippians 4:6

As I followed each action the scripture advises, I felt the fear dissipate and peace permeate my spirit. Consider an area of your life in which fear, doubt, worry or anxiety are interfering with your ability to take action or make a decision that will take you beyond your comfort zone. Then follow the three simple steps advised in Philippians 4:6:

1. Pray. (“…but in everything by prayer and supplication…”)

Why is it that when we face a challenge, we sometimes shift into overdrive with trying to figure things out, speculating about the future and overthinking decisions. Let go of the need to feel like you can control the outcome and pray about it. Then listen for divine wisdom to guide you.

2. Make a gratitude list. (“…with thanksgiving…”)

Consider the various dynamics of your circumstance and identify what you are thankful for. Getting clear about the blessings that exist in the midst of your fears, doubts, anxieties or worries can shift your perspective and give you newfound confidence to move forward. What strengths exist that you need to focus on that explain why you should step out of your comfort zone?

3. Make a list of your requests and ask God to meet them. (…”let your requests be made known to God…” )

You can have what you need and even desire – but you must ask, believing that you can have it. It’s an exercise in faith! All things work together for good for those who love God, so trust that even if you don’t understand why things are not working out as you think they should, ultimately, they will work together for your good.

When it is time to step out of your comfort zone, it is normal to feel fear. If there is no fear, it often means you are still in your comfort zone! The key is to remember that your comfort zone is about certainty and familiarity. Even when something isn’t working in your life, you can sometimes prefer it because it is familiar and you know what to expect. But keep in mind that your current comfort zone was once unfamiliar, too. It was something new – a “discomfort zone.” Trust that as you step up to the next level, it won’t be new and unfamiliar forever. It, too, will become a comfort zone. Be willing to endure the process and you’ll see the desires of your heart consistently come to life.

Comments

Excellent point to the article,and one that should be reminded.Although I am not a Christian I have battled decisions by intellect over gut feeling,left brained,right side…you name it.Different people are just that,different,so their brain works in varying ways.I have a hard time concentrating on any subject when there is excessive noise because I can not hear my own voice in my head.Probably because I am not deaf yet.Basing part of my belief system on Philosophy(which is not a religion,unless you make it one),Mo Ti stated(probably from an earlier source).Selfishness is the root of all evil.This would indeed make a selfish decision evil and you by default.There are many decisions that seem selfish,but are not,and vice versa.True reflection is what is needed.Love for someone to challenge Mo Ti’s statement.I thought I could,and came up with a new attitude.